The Nigerian football community is in mourning following the passing of Elder Lawrence Onweazu Okonji, one of the country's most celebrated football legends. The former striker and coach died on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the age of 83, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that spanned decades.
From Dusty Pitches to National Stardom
Born in 1943 in Abakaliki, now the heart of Ebonyi State, Okonji hailed from Ibusa in Delta State. His football journey began in the most humble of circumstances - on rough, dusty pitches where makeshift goals and barefoot kicks shaped future stars. His love for the beautiful game started at the tender age of five, and by 16, he was already making waves with Ike Football Club in Abakaliki, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Okonji's educational background included attendance at St. Theresa's School in Abakaliki before he proceeded to the University of Physical Education in Budapest, Hungary, where he earned a Diploma in Sports with specialization in Football Coaching.
Illustrious Playing Career and National Duty
Okonji's playing career took him through some of Nigeria's most iconic football teams, including Aba Giant Killers (now Enyimba FC), Port Harcourt Red Devils (now Sharks FC), Ports Authority FC Lagos, and ECN (now NEPA FC Lagos).
The legendary striker first received his national team call-up to the Green Eagles in 1963 and became a full-time member by 1965, representing Nigeria until 1973. During his international career, he played alongside football greats including Joseph Erico (Jogo Bonito), Peter Anieke (Eusebio), Paul Ebiye Hamilton (Mars), and Sebastian Brodricks Imasuen (Sabara).
His performances in international friendlies against teams like Queens Park Rangers of England and Fortuna Düsseldorf of Germany remain memorable highlights that cemented his place in Nigerian football history.
Coaching Legacy and Final Curtain Call
After representing Lagos State at the first National Sports Festival in 1973, Okonji made a seamless transition into coaching. He handled several clubs including NEPA FC Lagos, Guinness FC, Lagos Academicals, Requins de l'Atlantique FC of Benin Republic, and Delta Force (formerly DSC FC).
One of the most symbolic moments of his career came on June 6, 1973, when he scored the final goal at the historic Lagos City Stadium (Onikan) during a friendly match between NEPA and Stationery Stores. This marked the closure of the old ground that had hosted football greats including the legendary Pelé.
After retiring from NEPA in 1989 as Principal Executive Officer in the Personnel Department, he continued coaching until 1997. He then ventured into private business with his late wife, Justina, establishing Okonji Enterprises.
Fondly called 'Daddy of Soccer' and 'Goal Sniffer', Okonji was celebrated for his incredible goal-scoring instinct and leadership both on and off the pitch. His passion, discipline, and achievements continue to inspire generations of Nigerian players and coaches, including his mentees - Adokiye Amiesimaka, Alloy Agu, and Waidi Akanni.
A true pioneer and strong supporter of grassroots football, Okonji was honored with a Chieftaincy title in his hometown of Ibusa, Delta State, in recognition of his contributions to football and youth development. Though the final whistle has blown for this football great, his legacy continues to inspire from beyond the pitch.
